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Palmetto Apartments: What to Know Before You Move In

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

Palmetto Apartments is a mid-rise residential complex in Columbia with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans

Palmetto Apartments sits on Devine Street in the heart of Columbia's midtown area, within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the University of South Carolina campus. The complex offers furnished and unfurnished units, on-site parking, and a fitness center. Rent varies by unit size and lease length, and the property manages its own leasing office rather than working through a third-party management company.

The building itself dates to the 1970s and has undergone periodic renovations. Units range from roughly 400 square feet for studios to over 800 square feet for two-bedroom apartments. The property does not offer month-to-month leases; standard lease terms are 12 months, though shorter terms may be negotiated directly with management.

Key Takeaways

  • Palmetto Apartments is located on Devine Street in Columbia's midtown, near USC and local businesses.
  • The complex offers studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units in both furnished and unfurnished configurations.
  • Parking is included on-site, and the property has a fitness center available to residents.
  • Standard leases run 12 months; contact the leasing office directly to discuss lease length options.
  • The property is managed in-house, so all maintenance requests and lease questions go through the on-site office.

Floor plans and unit sizes

Studio apartments at Palmetto range from approximately 400 to 450 square feet and include a bedroom, bathroom, and combined living and kitchen area. One-bedroom units are typically 550 to 650 square feet, with a separate living room, kitchen, and bedroom. Two-bedroom apartments run 750 to 850 square feet and include two full bedrooms, a living room, kitchen, and one or two bathrooms depending on the specific unit.

All units come with basic appliances: a refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher. Furnished units include a bed frame, sofa, and dining table; unfurnished units do not. Closet space varies by floor plan, with larger units offering walk-in closets. The leasing office can show floor plan diagrams and photos of model units during a tour.

Lease terms and move-in costs

Palmetto Apartments requires a signed lease before move-in. The standard lease term is 12 months. Early termination typically carries a penalty equal to one or two months' rent, depending on how much of the lease remains; the exact terms appear in the lease document itself. Residents should read the early termination clause carefully before signing, as breaking a lease can be costly.

Move-in costs usually include first month's rent, a security deposit (typically equal to one month's rent), and sometimes a non-refundable application or administrative fee. Some properties offer move-in specials during slower leasing seasons—discounted first month's rent or waived fees—but these change throughout the year. Contact the leasing office to ask what current specials are available.

Parking and amenities

Parking is included with every lease at no additional charge. Spaces are assigned and located in the surface lot adjacent to the building. Residents receive a parking permit or decal; vehicles without valid permits may be towed. The leasing office can explain the parking rules and any restrictions on guest parking or commercial vehicles.

The fitness center is open to all residents and includes cardio equipment and free weights. There is no additional fee to use it. The complex does not offer a pool, community room, or other common areas beyond the fitness center. Laundry facilities are located in each building, with washers and dryers available for resident use; some units have in-unit washer/dryer hookups, though not all.

Pet policy and restrictions

Palmetto Apartments does allow pets, but the policy includes restrictions and fees. Most properties of this type allow dogs and cats up to a certain weight limit—often 25 to 50 pounds—and charge a non-refundable pet fee per animal plus a monthly pet rent. Some breeds are restricted regardless of size. The leasing office has the full pet policy in writing and can tell you whether your specific pet is allowed.

Residents are responsible for cleaning up after pets in common areas and keeping animals from disturbing neighbors. Excessive noise or property damage caused by a pet can result in a lease violation notice. If you have a service animal or emotional support animal, mention this during the leasing process, as the rules and documentation requirements differ from standard pet policies.

Utilities and what's included

Rent covers the building's structure and common area maintenance but typically does not include water, sewer, electric, gas, or internet. Residents pay these utilities directly to the service providers. Water and sewer are sometimes included in rent at some properties; ask the leasing office which utilities are covered under the lease.

Trash collection is usually included in rent and picked up by the building's contracted service. Recycling may or may not be available; the leasing office can confirm. Internet service is not provided by the complex, but residents can contract with any provider that serves the address. Some providers offer service to Palmetto; the leasing office may have a list of available options.

How to contact the leasing office and schedule a tour

The Palmetto Apartments leasing office is located on-site and staffed during business hours, typically Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can visit in person, call, or email to schedule a tour or ask questions about availability and pricing. The office staff can show you model units, explain lease terms, and discuss move-in costs and current specials.

When you visit or call, have your move-in date in mind and ask about unit availability for that timeframe. Bring a photo ID and be prepared to discuss your income and rental history if you want to move forward with an application. The leasing office can tell you what documents they need and how long the approval process typically takes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a lease shorter than 12 months?

Standard leases are 12 months, but the leasing office may negotiate shorter terms depending on availability and market conditions. Contact them directly to discuss options for your specific move-in date. Shorter leases sometimes come with higher monthly rent.

Are utilities included in the rent?

No. Residents pay electric, gas, water, and sewer directly to service providers. Trash collection is typically included. Ask the leasing office which specific utilities are covered under your lease, as this can vary by unit or building section.

What happens if I need to break my lease early?

Early termination usually costs one or two months' rent as a penalty. The exact amount depends on how much of the lease remains and is spelled out in your lease document. Read this section carefully before signing, as breaking a lease can be expensive.

Is there a fitness center, and is it included?

Yes, there is an on-site fitness center with cardio equipment and free weights, and it is included with your lease at no extra cost. There is no pool or other major amenities beyond the fitness center and laundry facilities.

How do I schedule a tour of the apartments?

Visit the leasing office in person during business hours, call, or email to request a tour. The office is typically open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The staff can show you available floor plans and answer questions about pricing and move-in costs.